Where Are They Now? Anderson College Series
(by Steve Hopkins)
Article 4: Nigel Christopher
In 1989, Nigel Christopher was at a crossroads. He was among the best in Trinidad and Tobago and he had already represented his country, but in order to expand his table tennis skills, his best options seemed to be in Europe. Michael Hyatt was already at Anderson College, and contacted him via letter – and after some research, the choice was clear. Nigel headed to South Carolina where he could work on his education and his table tennis skills together at Anderson College.
Nigel describes culture shock as being a lasting memory. “People would smile and say good morning”, he said, “at home in Trinidad, people who acted that way were up to some type of trick”. He experienced Southern Hospitality, he grew to love it, and he never went home. Nigel has settled in Charlotte, North Carolina – about two hours Northeast of Anderson.
The friendships are the best part of the experience for Nigel. He met new people and has made lasting relationships – especially with the other players. The comradery with his teammates and rivalry with Augusta College were high points of his college years. Nigel’s table tennis flourished. He went on to win a collegiate singles title and supported two teammates who did the same. He reached a USATT rating over 2500 and played in two World Championships for Trinidad and Tobago.
Nigel attained his Business Administration degree from Anderson. Table tennis was less important to him after college – though it was an important tool in securing an education and advancing his career. Nigel is now married with a daughter. These days, he works in the brokerage world. He has worked for Bank of America and Merill Lynch dealing with investments and working as a trader. He now works for a group in the Charlotte area called Retirement Clearinghouse where he continues to help investors maximize their investments.
He lives close enough to Anderson University teammate Greg Riley that the two get together regularly. They have begun practicing again – and Nigel is discussing the idea of a table tennis comeback this Fall.